While both provide protection for your teeth, a sports guard and a night guard are effective for different reasons. It is important to understand the differences between a night guard and a sports guard to make the right decision for you. Whether you are dealing with teeth grinding at night or playing contact sports, these custom devices are designed to fit and protect your needs.
Night Guards and Sports Guards in Port Moody are created just like all dental devices by a dental professional: custom fit to your mouth to protect you and to help mitigate damage. This blog will show their uses, their advantages, and the differences between the two.
What Is a Night Guard?
A night guard is a custom-made oral device worn while sleeping to prevent teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism). This habit can cause jaw pain, headaches, and even cracked teeth over time. Night guards are made of smooth material that puts a soft layer between your top and bottom teeth.
Key Benefits of Night Guards:
- Protects teeth from grinding damage
- Reduces jaw tension and headaches
- Prevents wear and cracks in enamel
- Promotes better sleep quality
For a proper fit and durability, your dentist in Port Moody can create a personalized night guard that fits your bite perfectly.
What Is a Sports Guard?
A sports guard (or mouth guard) is a guard used during contact sports or sports with a risk of facial injury. Sports guards, unlike night guards, are designed to absorb impact to protect against broken teeth, jaw injuries, or cuts inside the mouth.
The main benefits of sports guards are:
- It protects your teeth and gums from injury during high-impact activities
- It lessens the likelihood you will fracture your jaw.
- It protects your lips, cheeks, and tongue from injury.
- Most beneficial for hockey, football, or boxing.
What Is the Main Difference Between Night Guard and Sports Guard?
The biggest difference is their purpose.
- Night guards protect against the internal pressure of teeth grinding.
- Sports guards protect against external impacts during sports.
| Comparison Factor | Night Guard | Sports Guard |
| Use | Teeth grinding, clenching | Contact sports |
| Material | Softer, thinner | Thicker, shock-absorbing |
| Wear Time | During sleep | During sports activities |
How Do You Know Which Guard You Need?
Ask yourself these questions:
- Do you wake up with jaw pain or headaches? It may be time for a night guard.
- Do you experience both of these issues? The dentist near you may recommend separate devices for day and night use.
Are Custom Guards Better Than Store-Bought Ones?
Absolutely custom guards made by top professionals provide a perfect fit and much better protection than off-the-rack guards. They are less bulky, more durable, and do not have to come off as quickly!
Safeguard Your Teeth With Expert Care; Book Your Visit Now!
Although night guards and sports guards near you serve different functions to protect your teeth from damage, which guard you choose will depend on your needs and lifestyle. At Mint Dental, we offer durable, custom guards that will be comfortable for you! Schedule your appointment today to protect your smile!
FAQs
How often do I need to get a new night guard?
A custom night guard will last for 3 – 5 years with good care, but will need to be replaced sooner if it wears down.
Do sports guards protect against concussions?
They protect your teeth and jaw, but they do not prevent concussions. A sports guard can still help to decrease the possibility of concussive injury related to jaw injuries.
How do I wash my sports guard?
After each use, rinse it with cold water, and brush it gently with a mild soap or a non-abrasive toothpaste.
Can I use a night guard in the daytime?
Yes, if you tend to clench or grind your teeth during the day, you may want to consider a day guard, which is a thinner version of a night guard.